Using optimisation for calibrating finite element models for adobe walls

Abstract

This paper presents a proposal for applying optimisation schemes to calibrating 3D linear and non-linear finite element models for analysing structural walls made out of adobe. The calibration was based on laboratory data and that from previous research. Simulation and calibration involves a deep study of the conceptual model of adobe’s structural behaviour, mathematical and nu- merical models and the interrelationship with optimisation schemes arising from minimising an objective function. This is defined in terms of design variables and is restricted by the values of state variables. Both were obtained from the finite element model developed at ANSYS. The optimisation scheme with which the model was automatically calibrated required a macro to be pro- grammed using an APDL language package. This research was aimed at implementing nonlinear computational models for the structural analysis of walls based on experimental data; this provided a tool for assessing the behaviour of adobe walls with grea- ter security so that decisions can be made to make structural rehabilitation feasible and efficient.

Keywords

• optimisation
• finite element
• model calibration
• adobe